August 16, 2018

Right to be treated equally and to be free from bullying, harassment and discrimination, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression

Right to be respected and to dress and act in ways that do not conform to stereotypes associated with your gender, with respect to the student dress code

Right to LGBTQ-inclusive social studies, history and comprehensive sexual health education

Right to be referred to by the gender pronoun and name that fits your gender identity

Right to be involved in school activities, and access spaces such as locker rooms and restrooms, that fit with your gender identity

Right to speak out about LGBTQ issues, including wearing LGBTQ-affirming t-shirts, stickers and bracelets, and access information about LGBTQ issues on school computers, and to bring same gender dates to prom

Right to form and organize Gay-Straight Alliance, or similarly LGBTQ-related student clubs

Right to be “out” and be yourself at school, and give permission to school staff of when and to whom they can share your LGBTQ identity

Right to consent to sensitive LGBTQ or sexual health-related services without permission from your parent/guardian or primary caregiver, if you are age 12 or older

I encourage every candidate for every position — and, really, everyone — to publicly and explicitly support these policies.